Raccoons and Opossums in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois


Understanding Risks, Signs, and Safe Removal

Our Ethical Approach to Wildlife

Humane care for the misunderstood


At Advanced Wildlife Management, we see raccoons and opossums as more than just intruders—they are intelligent, instinct-driven animals with a vital role in our ecosystem. We treat them with the respect they deserve, using ethical removal strategies that avoid harm. Our team is trained to relocate animals safely, especially during baby season, and we take pride in protecting the well-being of wildlife while restoring peace to your home.

Raccoons and opossums are common in both urban and rural parts of Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. These animals are nocturnal, intelligent, and strong—capable of tearing through roofs, vents, and soffits to access your attic or crawlspace. While raccoons can be aggressive and destructive, opossums are more docile but equally invasive.

Understanding Oppossums Raccoons in Our Region

Why nocturnal thumps and scratching may signal a major issue

A mother opossum is carrying her babies on her back.

Common Species in the Area

The intruders most likely to be making a racket in your attic

A close up of a raccoon looking at the camera

Common Raccoon (Procyon lotor)

Lanscape designer

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A small opossum is sitting on the ground looking at the camera.

Virginia Opossum

Gardener

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Raccoons are especially active in spring during birthing season and again in fall. Opossums may seek warm shelter year-round.

Warning Signs of Raccoons or Opossums

How to know what’s making all that noise

  • Loud thumping, dragging, or growling sounds at night
  • Visible roof or soffit damage
  • Scat in the attic, often similar to small dog droppings
  • Stains or wet spots on ceilings
  • Daytime sightings of juvenile raccoons (a sign of a nearby nest)


Habitats and

Entry Points

How raccoons and opossums force their way

into your home


  • Uncapped chimneys and attic vents
  • Torn or damaged soffits
  • Roofline gaps or fascia board weaknesses
  • Crawlspace access points or unsecured foundation vents
  • Loose shingles or roof returns



Raccoons are known to rip or claw their way into even small openings.

The Dangers of Raccoon Infestations

Destructive, dangerous, and often unsanitary

Structural Damage: Raccoons tear insulation, ducts, and vapor barriers


Health Hazards: Feces can carry roundworm and leptospirosis


Aggressive Behavior: Raccoons may scratch or bite if cornered


Odors & Contamination: Urine and droppings leave strong, lingering smells

Safe and Humane Raccoon Removal

Strong solutions for strong animals Advanced Wildlife Management uses safe, legal, and humane methods to remove raccoons and opossums. Our removal process includes:


  1. Property-wide inspection to identify entry points and nesting sites
  2. Use of humane live traps or one-way exclusion devices
  3. Safe removal of animals and relocation where applicable
  4. Sealing all access points with raccoon-resistant materials


We take extra precautions during birthing season to ensure babies are safely removed and reunited.


Repairs After Removal

Restoring safety, structure, and sanitation after the damage


  • Replacement of torn insulation and damaged ductwork
  • Sealing roof returns, soffits, and crawlspace entry points
  • Installation of chimney caps and vent guards
  • Cleaning and disinfecting areas contaminated by droppings or urine


Hearing loud noises in your attic at night?

Call us today at 815-543-0966 before the damage worsens.